They're using magnesium in the XBA-2, XBA-3, XBA-4 and liquid crystal in the XBA-1.

That means the people that instantly buy the XBA-4, will eventually buy the XBA-1 anyway out of curiosity, Sony has already given it a label of "Profound vocal sound".

The people that buy the XBA-1 thinking it's expensive enough already, will slowly become insatiably curious about the XBA-2, 3 and 4.

In the end Sony is making sure everyone buys at least two models to increase sales two-fold, and they sure released these all at a good time, the balanced armature IEM market is more lively than ever right now in 2011.

@Joker - You should take a listen of the new Brainwavz Beta's ~(the one with the comply tips standard) - I reckon they're a good contender for under $50 range - I would send you mine but it would probably cost about the same in shipping there and back than an actual new pair

So, I am not sure now :( What do you recommend guys, for a lounge, chillout, light electronic music listener and a little bit basshead? xD

SE215, CC51, or maybe Etymotic MC5? Or another model?

These three seems to compare in score, but what about my kind of music?

Can be risky to get the 215s form Amazon? Because I don't understand what is the defect that is discussed here.

I think its actually safest to get the SE215 on amazon (directly from amazon, that is) as you'd be covered by the warranty but personally I still wouldn't risk them at this point. If you're worried about longevity I'd go Beyer DTX 101 iE, otherwise maybe one of the Xears models or the Brainwavz M2. The MC5 definitely won't have enough bass for you and the CC51 might not have enough if you don't get a perfect seal.

They're using magnesium in the XBA-2, XBA-3, XBA-4 and liquid crystal in the XBA-1.

That means the people that instantly buy the XBA-4, will eventually buy the XBA-1 anyway out of curiosity, Sony has already given it a label of "Profound vocal sound".

The people that buy the XBA-1 thinking it's expensive enough already, will slowly become insatiably curious about the XBA-2, 3 and 4.

In the end Sony is making sure everyone buys at least two models to increase sales two-fold, and they sure released these all at a good time, the balanced armature IEM market is more lively than ever right now in 2011.

The XBA-3 is the one for me.

p.s. Why was my thread showing the movie about this deleted?

Curse you, Sony! Hehe...my wallet grows ever thinner with such news!

Quote:

Originally Posted by i2ehan

I'm personally eyeing the XBA-1 and XBA-4 myself; the former for neutrality, and the latter for the super woofer.

I was thinking the same thing too, although budget may have the final say on how I go about that pruchase. Lets hope they dont price them in the EX1000 range.

wow!!! I'm looking to buy an IEM to complement my HD 598 and SRH 940 cans and was looking around the forums for opinions on the best IEM but after stumbling on this thread I think I dont have to look further! good work to the OP!

wow!!! I'm looking to buy an IEM to complement my HD 598 and SRH 940 cans and was looking around the forums for opinions on the best IEM but after stumbling on this thread I think I dont have to look further! good work to the OP!